Innovation Design Labs Implementation

2019 Recieved EdTech Tools 

Our first Facebook Grant got awarded to the EdTech department in 2019, when the Educational Technology team had a vision to create a district Innovation Lab. This lab was designed to house educational technology tools where educators can explore tools, recieve training and use in their own classrooms. 

2019-21 Creation of the first district Innovation Design Lab (IDL)

As we began receiving items the Edtech team created a system for checkout to our employees. We hosted numerous learning playgrounds at various school sites. This opened the eyes of educators and interested students the possibilty of coding with robots, engineering with technological circuit boards,  and the design process. Observers were able to get hands on with tools, observe students in action while teamwork, critical thinking  skills and real world experiences were showcased. 

2022 Site-Based Innovation Design Lab (IDL)

Using the district IDL lab as a model,  sites were able to purchase items and design their own Innovation Design Lab. Being that these are the same tools used in the the district's lab, Digital Learning Coachs coaches are able to train computer teachers and staff on the same tools on site. Class sets and a barcoding check in and out system was put into place and as of September 2023 and all sites have innovative tools to use for their own site and community events. 

2023 Goal Setting and Community Events

Digital Learning Coaches are working closely with sites to set goals of implementation during community events, and asking what they would like to encourage their learners to focus on. Some examples includes connecting to content areas,  modeling use of tech, STEAM and coding with teachers and families. 

2023 Training and Sustainability

Digital Learning Coaches continue to provide support through the training they recieve and updates needed to sustain this learning environments.  Subscriptions and online management systems help support the effectiveness of implementation.  The idea of something staying a novelty in order for engagement to stay high must continue to be encouraged through Community/Challenged Based Learning and the Design Process Learning. The Educational Technology Team at Los Lunas Public Schools is here to support that.

2024 VR Implementation, Engineering and Sharing our Story through Video

• Virtual Reality has allowed opportunities for students and families to immerse into real world connections. 

• Sphero Blueprints were purchased for secondary sites so students can quickly design, build and test mechanical and structural engineering concepts in the class.

• Updated Padcaster videography kits with iPads allows staff and student leaders to get the Los Lunas community involved in showcasing events happening in schools and after school events. 

2025 Sphero Coding Challenge 

• Coding with Indi, Bolt+ and RVR+ robots allows teamwork, critical thinking and new opportunities for elementary students

• Students participate in lessons in which they can submit their challenges to a world wide virtual competition and recieve feedback while competing with others. 

• District Showcase event involving the community is currently being planned out.